AI Factory Faces Local Pushback | Auckland News

Auckland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 23, 2026 · 1m

A $3.5 billion AI data center is set to rise in Southland, sparking fierce local backlash as residents demand face-to-face talks with developers Datagrid. Despite a packed community meeting and promises of 1,200 construction jobs, critics question the long-term economic impact — only 80 staff will be needed once operational. Datagrid claims it’ll use ambient air for cooling, avoid groundwater, and even boost renewable energy — backed by Mercury’s $53 million investment and a long-term power deal. But skeptics warn of low taxes, high energy use, and the hidden costs of AI’s boom — while the…